The Indiana Pacers will attempt to secure their first win in nine games as they face the Houston Rockets on December 29, 2025. Currently, the Pacers hold a record of 6-26, struggling significantly under head coach Rick Carlisle. The team has failed to achieve a victory in their last eight outings, with recent performances often resulting in lopsided defeats.
Indiana’s last two opponents managed to score over 140 points, raising concerns about the team’s defensive capabilities. The Rockets, who are 19-10, are coming off two dominant victories against the Los Angeles Lakers and Cleveland Cavaliers, winning those games by a total of 40 points. The Pacers will need to improve their performance to avoid extending their current losing streak, which includes five losses by 17 points or more.
Game Details and Lineups
Tonight’s match will take place at the Toyota Center in Houston at 20:10 EST. The Pacers will have several players back from injury, including Aaron Nesmith and T.J. McConnell. Their presence, along with contributions from Pascal Siakam, Andrew Nembhard, and Bennedict Mathurin, gives Indiana a glimmer of hope.
Despite their struggles, the Pacers had a brief respite from their losing streak earlier this month, securing a win against the Golden State Warriors on November 1. They have only managed to win once in 15 road games this season. In contrast, the Rockets enjoy a strong home record, standing at 9-2.
The two teams will meet again on February 2, 2026, at Gainbridge Fieldhouse. Historically, the Pacers have fared well against the Rockets, winning 10 of the last 11 meetings until Houston ended a nine-game winning streak in their last encounter at the Toyota Center. In that game, Tyrese Haliburton scored 28 points and dished out 15 assists, leading Indiana to a 115-102 victory.
Injury Updates and Betting Lines
As for injuries, the Pacers will be missing several key players. Tyrese Haliburton is sidelined due to a right Achilles tendon tear, while Obi Toppin and Isaiah Jackson are also out with injuries. The Rockets will be without Alperen Sengun, who is recovering from a left soleus strain, and Fred VanVleet, who is undergoing rehabilitation for a right knee ACL repair.
According to DraftKings, the betting lines for the game indicate the Rockets as heavy favorites, with a spread of Rockets -15.5 and a moneyline of Rockets -1050, while the Pacers are set at +675. The over/under for the total points is set at 221.5.
In a recent statement, Rockets head coach Ime Udoka highlighted the importance of lineup versatility, saying, “Once we’re whole and full, and off minutes restrictions, we’ll figure out what works best. We have 10 quality players that can start every night.”
As the Pacers aim to turn their season around, this matchup against the Rockets presents a critical opportunity to snap their losing streak and regain some momentum.
